The Rotary Club of St. Vincent South has facilitated the donation of two containers of medical equipment and supplies to Milton Cato Memorial Hospital.
The containers, which are valued at over US$7,000 each, were donated through a partnership with Rotary MESA (Medical Equipment and Supplies Abroad) in Ohio, United States.
The supplies will go to the hospitals and clinics in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
The first container arrived in March last year and contained exam tables, medical cabinets, lighting, trolleys and mobility equipment — such as wheelchairs, walkers, and crutches, surgical lighting and chairs.
The second container, which was handed over last month, contained chairs, lighting, exam tables, surgical equipment, and personal protective equipment and supplies.
“As always, the need for medical equipment/supplies is greatly appreciated by the Ministry of Health as the high demand for these items continues to be a priority at our medical facilities,” the club said in a press statement.
The items were handed over in the presence of Ministry of Health personnel including Permanent Secretary, Cuthbert Knights and Deputy Hospital Administrator Andrew Williams. Rotary St. Vincent South was represented by Rotarians Shakeila Veira and Kim Haydock.
During the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, Rotary was instrumental in outfitting the Isolation Unit with furniture, equipment.
The cost of that container was valued at over US$500,000.
“Rotary Club of St. Vincent South intends to continue assisting with the procurement of vital and costly medical equipment through their partnership with Rotary MESA, who, in turn, continue to provide an outstanding medical supply service to the people of St. Vincent & the Grenadines,” the statement said.
“Rotary personifies their motto of ‘Service above Self’ by assisting wherever the need is greatest.”